2022 Porsche 718 Boxster Review

From the late 1980s through the mid-'90s, Porsche's sales plummeted to record lows until a new model, the mid-engine Boxster convertible sports car, arrived to reverse that trend. More affordable than a 911 yet still riotously fun to drive, the Boxster became Porsche's best-seller overnight, a distinction it would enjoy until the introduction of the Cayenne SUV. Today, the successor to that two-seat convertible (now renamed 718 Boxster) possesses many of the same attributes that made the original a resounding success.

But one area where the 718 Boxster falls short is its base engine. Much to Porsche purists' dismay, when the Boxster and its Cayman hardtop sibling were redesigned in 2017 their six-cylinder engines were replaced by a turbocharged flat-four. It provides adequate thrust but little aural satisfaction. For those who miss the growl of a naturally aspirated flat-six, there's the GTS 4.0 introduced last year and the range-topping 718 Boxster Spyder, though both of those are out of reach for many. Even the four-cylinder Boxster can get pricey once you spec it with the options you want.

But for those who can afford it, the 718 Boxster delivers an unparalleled connection to the road. You'll be hard-pressed to find a sports car that rivals the Boxster's sharp handling and crisp steering response, but its competitors include the Chevrolet Corvette convertible, BMW Z4 and Jaguar F-Type convertible. All three of those can be had for less than a GTS 4.0 (the Boxster model we recommend). But if you're looking for the most engaging sports car experience, the Porsche is the way to go.

The 2022 718 Boxster roadster is available in six trim levels: the base Boxster, Boxster T, Boxster S, Boxster GTS 4.0, top-of-the-line Boxster Spyder and the limited-edition Boxster 25 Years, which came out last year and continues into 2022 on a very limited basis. All are rear-wheel-drive and come standard with a six-speed manual transmission. A seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission (Porsche calls it PDK) is offered as an option. Feature highlights include: